Abstract
Entertainment offers a powerful medium in reducing bias and prejudice. Therefore, its critical role in shaping bias through on-screen representation needs to be explored through people who work directly with writers, directors, and actors. This qualitative study aimed to determine the impact of diversity and inclusion approaches by interviewing 14 advocates of creative talent in the entertainment industry. The study explored the types of Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) initiatives prevalent in entertainment, the correlation between bias and prejudice reduction, and the perceived impact of these initiatives in improving environments. The study found that six themes emerged: access to relationships, highlighting talent, perceptions of the underrepresented, motivations for engagement, hiring as a metric, and positivity of incremental change. Three conclusions were drawn based on each inquiry area: programs based in support and contact, mixed signals in program effectiveness, and a promising path when disregarding speed.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Diversity in the workplace; Multiculturalism in mass media; Motion picture industry
Date of Award
2020
School Affiliation
Graziadio Business School
Department/Program
Business
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Masters
Faculty Advisor
Miriam Y. Lacey
Recommended Citation
Sands, Lindsey, "What goes into successful diversity and inclusion initiatives in entertainment? Lessons from advocates of creative talent" (2020). Theses and Dissertations. 1155.
https://digitalcommons.pepperdine.edu/etd/1155